Herb Kim, Codeworks’ chief executive, has been recognised as one of the country’s 100 most influential media people.

As a new entry to the annual list at number 83, Kim ranked higher than The Independent’s editor in chief Simon Kelner as well as BBC North director Peter Salmon.

Kim was described as an inspirational and pivotal figure in the UK technology scene outside of London.

“He’s very important in promoting regional businesses and a bit of a hero in the North East”, the Guardian panel said. “He enables, inspires, and allows a lot of collaborative minds to get together. He is highly regarded.”

Kim told New Media Monthly what a huge honour it feels like to be named in MediaGuardian 100.

He said: “I am slightly amazed and humbled to have been included but mostly it’s made me realise how many people I need to thank and appreciate.

“Without the support of hundreds of North East digital companies, One NorthEast, the Codeworks team, our Board Directors and Board Advisors, this simply would not have been possible.”

From Brooklyn to North East

Kim founded Codeworks, a non-profit digital organisation, in 2007 and is the founder and director of the annual Thinking Digital conference, which has become an industry leading event.

Princeton graduate Kim, who is originally from Brooklyn, is considered to be an important bridge between his home country and regional businesses in the UK.

“It’s interesting that he is one of the few Americans to come here but choose not to set up in London”, the panel said.

Kim is said to have been lured to the North East by a friend from the region who sold its unique characteristics to him.

The MediaGuardian 100 is a highly regarded listing of the most powerful people in television, radio, newspapers, magazines, digital media, media business, advertising and PR.